Alternative Therapies for Your Aching Back

Alternative therapies are gaining in popularity and acceptance. The medical establishment now recognizes complementary treatments as useful additions to orthodox medicine. However since approaches and training vary considerably, some therapies such as osteopathy are very widely accepted while other therapies are less well regulated.
 

Alternative therapies usually take a holistic approach, addressing problems on a mental, emotional and physical level. Very often they are useful for persistent musculoskeletal problems such as back pain.

Here are some of the potentially useful therapies available.

Acupuncture

This traditional Chinese therapy uses fine needles inserted into specific acupoints; around the body in order to promote the flow of energy or qi. Proponents believe acupuncture can treat a range of conditions, including back pain, and a number of studies suggest that it does have genuine pain-relieving properties. Acupuncture may also stimulate the nervous system and improve circulation. Relief from the sessions is relatively short lived, lasting for hours or days after a session. The therapy is gaining in popularity and is now available in many clinics. Find a registered practioner with the Acupuncture Foundation of Canada Institute (AFCI) or with The Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture Association of Canada  (CMAAC).

Shiatsu

This Japanese massage therapy is similar to acupuncture and is used stimulate energy flow through the body. The word shiatsu means finger pressure although practitioners also use palms, thumbs, feet and sometimes knees to apply rhythmic pressure to points around the body that correspond to the used in acupuncture. The therapy also incorporates assisted-stretching techniques. Treatment can be fairly physical but you should feel relaxed or invigorated after wards. Studies suggest shiatsu has some genuine relaxing and pain-relieving effects and it may be a useful way to relieve muscle tension in problem backs and necks. Find out more at Shiatsu Canada.

Reflexology

This ancient system of foot massage is based on the principle that there are reflex points in your hands and feet that correspond to particular body systems and organs. Reflexologists believe that pressure on these points can reduce tension, improve circulation and remove energy blockages along the nerve pathways to particular areas of the body such as the spine or sciatic nerve. Even though there is little research to support its theoretical claims, many people find this type of foot massage relaxing and this may help to relieve muscle tension and back pain.  Many doctors remain largely sceptical about the therapy's wider benefits. The Reflexology Association of Canada (RAC) has more information on their website.

Chiropractic and Osteopathy

These manipulative therapies have a common origin in the traditions of bonesetting and continue to share many techniques and approaches today. Osteopathy uses manipulation, massage and stretching to improve the alignment and function of bones, joints and muscles all over the body. Your family doctor should be able to refer you to a registered Osteopathy Practitioner.

Chiropractic therapy, also known as spinal manipulative therapy, tends to focus more closely on the spine and is based on the principle that vertebral misalignments underpin most musculoskeletal disorders.Most doctors consider the therapies to be a potentially valuable way to treat many musculoskeletal disorders.
The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) has a list of registered practitioners in your area.